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Bird responds to complaints of scooter misuse in Big Rapids - The Pioneer

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BIG RAPIDS — In Big Rapids, Bird scooters are a new addition, making regular appearances across town. However, many have reported seeing scooters being used by underage riders, damaged, and improperly used.

The scooter company has several steps in place to address these issues, but as instances of misuse continue to occur the organization is faced with seeking new ways to solve the problems.

With scooter usage on the rise in town, addressing misuse is one many residents care about. Bird has many safety features that accompany the purchased ride, and regulations created to help riders handle damaged vehicles.

Bird spokesperson Natalie Sawyer said the company has received positive reviews about the scooters from riders since Big Rapids city commissioners gave approval to Bird Rides, Inc. to operate a fleet of about 50-75 stand-up electric scooters throughout the city in April.

“All cities are unique, and thus far, the community of Big Rapids has overwhelmingly adopted the use of Bird scooters in a positive and responsible manner,” Sawyer said. “Bird is working with city staff and our local operational partners to implement new strategies and practices to help reduce any instances of vandalism that may occur.”

Three of the four known shared e-scooter fatalities in the U.S. have taken place between 1-5 a.m.

At the company’s inception it made an early operating decision to cease operations overnight, in recognition of the traffic safety literature that finds a disproportionately high crash risk in the late night and early morning hours, according to Bird’s 2019 Safety Report.

The Bird Zero, the newest vehicle in the Bird fleet, is purpose designed and engineered for long-lasting daily shared use. It meets the demands of cities with varying climates and street terrains by providing riders with superior battery life for longer range, enhanced lighting for increased visibility, stability, and improved durability for a longer life-span.

In addressing underage riding, Bird has attempted to reduce this through requiring users to photograph their licenses, and only allowing use by riders 18 years or older.

“Bird staff have been working with our city partners to engage in broad reaching communications campaigns to get the word out about underaged riding,” Sawyer said. “We are committed to deterring underage riding and will do so through education and preventative technology. We continue to explore additional strategies, including ID verification, and will implement them as necessary.”

Bird’s GPS technology allows it to monitor where Birds are located at all times, to create customized zones that regulate speed based on a Bird’s physical location, and to send push notifications regarding relevant geo-specific regulations.

If a vehicle appears to be damaged after a rider captures and attempts to relocate or charge it, they are asked to report it via Community Mode so that Bird can mark the vehicle as damaged. Once the company receive the report, they can mark the vehicle as damaged so it can be released it at a damage nest.

Some of Bird’s other safety features include "Helmet Selfies," which encourage riders to photograph themselves wearing a helmet to receive a credit on their next ride, and an ongoing free helmet campaign within the region.

While Bird scooters are new to the area, addressing problems that arise will be a new task for government officials to tackle. Sawyer said the company has representatives who work with city leaders and government officials to address ongoing issues with the scooters, and that Bird is proud to partner with the city of Big Rapids and to provide eco-friendly, affordable transportation service to residents and visitors.

“In all the communities we partner with, Bird seeks to create unique solutions best suited to address the needs of the city,” Sawyer said. “Bird has ongoing conversations with our city partners in Big Rapids and is committed to working with all staff. We have dedicated personnel to ensure we remain up to date on any feedback coming from the community.”

“Bird is in constant communication with the city and makes sure riders take a rider safety quiz before their first ride to understand the rules of the road and responsible riding,” she added. “A dedicated Bird representative has been working with Big Rapids city staff to implement new features and create dynamic solutions to address the specific needs of the community.”

To learn more about the Bird scooters, how to access and ride them, and more safety features, visit the Bird website at bird.co.

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